The New York Jets are welcoming back a familiar face in 2026, as linebacker Demario Davis returns to the team after nearly a decade away. Davis, originally a third-round pick in 2012, has signed a two-year, $22 million deal with $15 million guaranteed.
Davis spent his early years with the Jets before moving to the Cleveland Browns in 2016. He briefly returned to the Jets in 2017, delivering a standout season where he tied for the league lead in solo tackles with 97, alongside Bobby Wagner. His journey then took him to the New Orleans Saints, where he truly shined, earning first-team All-Pro honors in 2019 and multiple second-team All-Pro selections and Pro Bowl appearances from 2020 to 2023.
With a career tally of 1,536 tackles, 45 sacks, six forced fumbles, nine fumble recoveries, four interceptions, and 61 pass deflections, Davis brings a wealth of experience and skill back to New York. During his five seasons with the Jets, he racked up 483 tackles, 11.5 sacks, five fumble recoveries, an interception, and 11 pass deflections.
Despite being 37, Davis remains remarkably durable, having played at least 16 games each season since 2017. Last year, he recorded 64 tackles, a fumble recovery, two forced fumbles, and three pass deflections.
Returning to the Jets, Davis will now play under his third head coach with the team, Aaron Glenn, aiming to bolster the defense in Glenn’s second season. Davis's experience and leadership will be invaluable as he looks to make an impact once again in New York.